SeaWorld unveils Rose Parade float

SeaWorld parks will be presented in the 125th annual Rose Parade with a float called 'A Sea of Surprises.'

SeaWorld parks will be presented in the 125th annual Rose Parade with a float called 'A Sea of Surprises.' (SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment)

Dewayne Bevil, Orlando Sentinel

SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment has unveiled its Rose Parade float, which mixes rose petals and killer whales for the event, which will glide through the streets of Pasadena, Calif., on Jan. 1, 2014.

The float, named "Sea of Surprises," includes penguins, dolphins, sea turtles, whales and other sealife. It is dominated by a 55-foot wave that will be created out of 20,000 iris and roses plus a colorful reef, designed with 15,000 orange roses. The unit is topped by a snorkeling -- but floral -- boy.

The theme of the 125th Rose Parade is "Dreams Come True."

"The 'Sea of Surprises' float melds the power of connecting to the natural world with the inspiration, fun, and imagination that millions experience when visiting SeaWorld parks," said Tim Estes, president of Fiesta Parade Floats, that company that is building the parade unit.

SeaWorld will also participate in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade next month in New York City. The company is ramping up promotions in conjunction with its 50th birthday next year.